Calls For Tougher Sentences For Drivers

A year after a Dorset cyclist was hit by a car and killed, the government is facing calls to make the justice system fairer for those on two wheels.

Rob Jefferies worked for British Cycling as a volunteer co-ordinator. He was on a daylight training ride near his home with a friend when he was hit from behind and killed.

After his death, his brother Will made an impassioned plea to London Mayor Boris Johnson, who has now pledged to work to monitor sentences given for dangerous driving.

It's to make sure cyclists and other road users feel confident that the justice system will support them if they are hurt on the country's roads.

British Cycling, with the support of Cycling Weekly and other cycling and road safety organisations, is writing to various Cabinet ministers asking for a meeting to agree a plan of action that will give cyclists and all road users confidence that the justice system is playing the role it should to support and protect them.

Will Jefferies said: "In spite of the best efforts of the police, the CPS and the legal team at British Cycling there would be no justice for Rob. The present state of the law meant that his killer could never receive a sentence proportionate to the crime. Rob's family all miss him a lot. We hope that his death can play some part in changing legislation for the better."